Sir John Whittingdale visited the Big Summer Party at Heybridge Primary School on Saturday (August 24).

The event was organised for local children by Essex County Council as part of the Holiday Activities and Food Programme. 

The programme provides free activities during the school holidays for school-aged children from reception to year 11 who receive benefits-related free school meals.

This was funded with over £200 million for three years from 2022 by the last Conservative Government.

The programme at Heybridge Primary School was run by Andrew and Holly Fry of Little Sportsters Coaching, a Maldon based children's multi-sport coaching service.

Beginning as Little Scrummers Rugby Coaching, the service now offers children the chance to try out a range of sports, all the way from Athletics to Gymnastics.

Sir John said: "This is a fantastic programme and I greatly enjoyed meeting the staff and seeing over 50 children enjoying the activities.

"It is great that it is available free for children from lower income families, providing a meal and exercise daily throughout the holidays and also giving parents a break. 

"Thanks to the Conservative Government, funding is in place for this year and I will be pressing the new Government to continue it next year".